Taming the Tantrum: A loving guide to Indian Parents

We’ve all been there: in the middle of a shop or at a family gathering, and suddenly our sweet toddler is on the floor, crying and screaming. It’s embarrassing and stressful, and our first instinct is often to do anything to make it stop.

​But what happens when, to quiet the tantrum, we give them the chocolate or toy they demand? We solve the problem for a minute, but we accidentally teach a powerful lesson: “If I scream loudly, I get what I want.” This is how toddler tantrums, a normal part of growing up, can become a learned habit.

​Toddlerhood is a time of big feelings and limited words. Their frustration is real, but giving in every time doesn’t help them learn to manage it. This can lead to bigger challenges later, creating a child who struggles with the word “no” and can’t handle disappointment.

​So, how can we lovingly guide them through these emotional storms?

​Stay Calm: Your calm presence is their anchor. Take a deep breath. A shouting match with a two-year-old never works.

​Acknowledge the Feeling, Not the Behaviour: Get down to their level. Say, “I know you are very angry that we have to leave the park. It’s okay to be sad.” This shows you understand their feelings, even if you don’t give in to the demand.

​Be Consistent: This is the hardest part. If the answer is no, it must stay no. Consistency is kindness; it teaches your child clear boundaries and what to expect.

​Give Them Words: Help them name their big emotions. “You are feeling so frustrated because the blocks keep falling.” This builds their emotional vocabulary and teaches them to express themselves with words, not just tears.

​By coaching our toddlers through their tantrums, we aren’t just stopping the crying. We are building their emotional strength for a lifetime.